How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Columbus
Consider each moving company's cost, services, licensing, and customer reviews before picking.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for local movers in Columbus is $58. A two-bedroom move in the area costs around $4,224 in total. Factors that affect your actual cost include your home size, move distance, any additional tasks you need done, and the season.
Consider obtaining quotes from at least three moving companies in your area to make an educated choice. Written estimates are crucial in this process. They should include a comprehensive breakdown of the total cost, including the hourly rate or flat fee. Keep your mover's estimate handy until the company has completed your move to ensure fair pricing practices.
Read Customer Reviews
Moving companies need solid customer reviews. Check platforms such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau, social media, Yelp, and Trustpilot to learn about the typical customer experience with that mover.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Columbus must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving within Georgia, your chosen mover must have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Georgia Department of Public Safety’s Motor Carrier division.
If you're moving interstate, the regulations are different. Choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It should also have active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers, which you can use on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool to look up a mover’s registration status and complaint history.
Services
Ask if the mover you chose provides the services that meet your expectations when requesting quotes. Compile a list of any basic or add-on services you may require and take a full inventory of your home before requesting quotes. Share any special conditions or needs with your moving company representative in order to assess whether the company can fulfill your specific requirements.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers will include these services in the base price for basic moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Ensure you inform your mover of any special services you require during the quote process. Services that result in increased pricing include the following:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Columbus, GA
Consider the following before moving to, from, or within Columbus.
Schedule an Early Move
Columbus usually gets congested during rush hour. Maneuvering through it can be more challenging in a moving truck compared to a personal-use car. Movers caught in traffic may lead to delays and a higher cost since local movers charge by the hour. You can prevent this by scheduling your move several hours before or after morning rush hour.
Avoid Busy Season
Moving season is the busiest between May and September. In Columbus, this time coincides with very hot summer weather, which can delay or worsen your move. Plan ahead and secure your preferred mover at least eight weeks in advance. You should also be prepared for the potential challenges the summer weather may pose to your movers during a summer move.
Pack in Advance
You should begin packing around six weeks before your move. Pack a few boxes every day to avoid rushing on the day of your move. Your movers may have a few spare boxes with them for last-minute packing, but you shouldn’t depend on it. Most movers won't transport items that haven't been packed when your move starts.
How Much do Movers Cost in Columbus, GA
Movers in Columbus cost $2,635 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,125 to move a larger 4 bedroom house the same distance. See the chart below for more moving estimates, and contact a moving company for a more accurate quote specific to your situation.
| Distance | Studio-1 Bedroom | 2-3 Bedroom | 4+ Bedroom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 250 miles | $2,635 | $3,084 | $7,125 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,248 | $3,707 | $10,604 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,285 | $4,257 | $10,952 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,197 | $5,322 | $13,089 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Columbus
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